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The newly inaugurated president has pledged to reshape Ireland into a “nation that lives up to its ideals” by championing diversity, the Gaelic tongue, and the history of independence.

During her swearing-in speech, the president outlined a progressive vision contrasting with the centre-right orthodoxy.

“We were led to believe that it was an impossible step, that our ideas were too radical – at odds with the prevailing narrative,” she stated, pointing to her decisive election win.

“In shared conversations, however, it became evident that the dominant narrative did not represent people’s hopes and fears. Time and time again, people spoke of how it tended to suppress, to other, to label, to exclude and to stifle critical thinking.”

On a day marked by pomp at Dublin Castle, the experienced legal professional declared that as Ireland’s 10th president, she would ensure “all voices” were heard and would promote climate action, tolerance, and a Gaelic revival.

“The people have spoken and have given their president a strong endorsement to articulate their vision for a new republic, a republic worthy of its name where each person matters and differences are celebrated, where eco-friendly policies are urgently implemented, and where a housing is guaranteed for all.”

The presidential race outcome shocked the political establishment. The independent leftwing legislator brought together progressive factions, mobilised the youth, and trounced the ruling party’s candidate by winning 64% of the vote.

Though the role is primarily symbolic, the previous officeholder had stretched the constraints, turning it into a voice for causes—a practice the new president will likely uphold.

In a ballroom packed with government figures, diplomats, and distinguished guests, the president expressed regret over “the normalisation of war and atrocities.”

Commending Ireland’s non-alignment—a possible point of disagreement with the government—she asserted: “Our history under foreign rule and resistance of a catastrophic man-made famine gives us a lived understanding of loss, hunger, and war and a mandate for Ireland to lead.”

The president additionally praised the Good Friday agreement and referenced article 3 of Ireland’s constitution that supports national unity with agreement. One major group did not attend but said no snub was intended.

Switching to Irish, she repeated a commitment to elevate Irish in the presidential office and residence. “Gaelic will not be whispered in the Áras, it will have first place as a language of business.”

No nation can express its desires if the indigenous tongue used forebears was lost, she said. “It has been put in second place without due honour or acknowledgement. The hearts of our people were dampened when they were prevented from speaking their own language. It’s a language that conveys emotion and meaning with every word.”

A 21-gun salute was sounded as the head of state received the seal of office.